Metropolitan Redevelopment Area FAQs - Q&A

The Los Alamos County Metropolitan Redevelopment Area (MRA) Program provides financial and technical support for projects that revitalize underused or blighted areas within designated MRA districts. 

Current MRA districts include: 

• East Downtown Los Alamos (Mari Mac area and adjacent parcels) 

• White Rock Town Center 

• Rover 

• Bonnie View 

• Longview 

Eligible applicants include businesses, developers, and property owners with projects that: 

• Are located within a designated MRA district. 
• Align with the adopted MRA Plan goals.  
• Deliver a public benefit such as blight removal, economic stimulation, new housing units, enhanced public spaces, or job creation. 
• Demonstrate financial feasibility and a clear implementation timeline. 
• Are current on taxes and comply with applicable zoning, code, and environmental requirements.

Incentives may include: 

• Public-Private Partnerships (P3s) 

• Infrastructure investment or site improvements 

• Grants or direct contributions 

All support is performance-based and subject to County Council approval. 

Projects are evaluated using standardized criteria that consider catalytic and economic impact, alignment with MRA Plan goals, financial leverage, community benefit, and overall readiness. Projects resulting in the net loss of existing affordable housing units or the long-term displacement of current tenants are ineligible for MRA incentives. 

The process typically includes: 

1. Application – Provide all required documents, financials, and business plan. 
2. Committee Review – Project is evaluated using standardized evaluation criteria. 
3. Council Decision – Two public meetings: ordinance introduction and ordinance adoption. 
4. Agreement Execution – Sets project scope, funding terms, and reporting requirements.

The program is administered by Los Alamos County’s Economic Development Division. Staff review applications, facilitate evaluation, and monitor compliance. County Council provides final approval for all project funding. 

Approved projects must submit quarterly progress reports, provide proof of expenditures, and submit a final project completion report before reimbursement. 

If a project does not meet its performance or reporting requirements, County staff will work with the applicant to resolve issues. Continued non-compliance may result in withholding reimbursements or requiring repayment of awarded funds under the terms of the Development Agreement.